TX
Texas Senate Bill SB1501

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1501

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
4/4/11  
Introduced
3/10/11  
Voted on by Senate
4/6/11  
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to energy and efficiency conservation programs administered by the Public Utility Commission of Texas.

Impact

The proposed changes under SB1501 would allow utilities to implement a range of new programs designed to enhance the energy efficiency of residential and commercial buildings. By expediting the approval and implementation process for innovative energy solutions, the bill aims to facilitate a reduction in overall energy consumption across the state. This could have profound implications for property owners, tenants, and local communities by lowering energy costs, increasing property value, and contributing to environmental sustainability.

Summary

SB1501 relates to energy efficiency and conservation programs administered by the Public Utility Commission of Texas. The bill aims to enhance existing frameworks by establishing detailed procedures for evaluating and implementing various energy-saving initiatives. This includes programs such as energy-smart schools, appliance retirement, air conditioning tune-ups, and customer energy management programs. The legislation seeks to promote significant reductions in energy demand and support initiatives that can deliver measurable savings for customers.

Contention

While the bill has gained support for its potential to foster energy efficiency and reduce costs for consumers, it's important to note that there may be contention around the execution of these programs. Stakeholders, including utility companies and local government entities, may have differing views on the balance between state regulation and local oversight in energy management. Additionally, concerns about the effectiveness of behavioral change programs and the equity of access to such initiatives for lower-income households may also arise during discussions around the bill.

Companion Bills

TX HB2709

Identical Relating to energy and efficiency conservation programs administered by the Texas Public Utility Commission.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3964

Relating to energy efficiency goals and programs, public information regarding energy efficiency programs, and the participation of loads in certain energy markets.

TX SB2404

Relating to the creation of the Texas Energy Efficiency Council to foster collaboration, coordination, and communication to enhance the state's energy efficiency performance; and strategically utilize the state's resources to optimize the benefits of energy efficiency programs.

TX SB624

Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.

TX HB4370

Relating to the abolishment of the State Energy Conservation Office and the transfer of its functions to the comptroller.

TX HB4811

Relating to the creation of the Texas Energy Efficiency Council.

TX HB1500

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel, and the functions of the independent organization certified for the ERCOT power region; increasing an administrative penalty.

TX SB258

Relating to energy efficiency goals for electric utilities.

TX SB1050

Relating to the authority of a natural gas local distribution company to offer energy conservation programs.

TX SB2441

Relating to the transfer of functions relating to the economic regulation of water and sewer service from the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel to the Water Public Utility Commission and the Office of Water Public Utility Counsel; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3707

Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.